Ryan Hickling killed in shock motorcycle crash outside Bundaberg, QLD

A popular 20-year-old rider, who worked for the iconic company behind Bundaberg Ginger Beer, is being remembered after he died in a crash between two motorcycles and a HiLux. LATEST

Ryan Hickling was killed in a horrific crash involving a Toyota Hilux and two motorcycles at Elliott when the vehicles collided at the Cedars Rd and Childers Rd intersection around 6pm Wednesday, October 30. Picture: Facebook

A 20-year-old man is being remembered as “a beautiful soul” following his tragic death in a crash outside the city on Wednesday night.

Ryan Hickling died after a crash between a Toyota HiLux and two motorcycles at the intersection of Cedars and Childers Roads at Elliott.

Sadly, the Thabeban man died at the scene.

According to the Queensland Ambulance Service, another man in his 20s suffered arm and leg injuries and was taken to Bundaberg Base Hospital while a third man, in his 40s, suffered chest injuries and was also taken to hospital.

Ryan Hickling was killed in a horrific crash involving a Toyota HiLux and two motorcycles at Elliott when the vehicles collided at the Cedars Rd and Childers Rd intersection around 6pm on Wednesday, October 30.

A friend who asked to remain anonymous, paid tribute to Ryan on Thursday.

“Ryan was such a fun hearted and funny guy always so fun to be around,” they said

“He was always there for everyone, and it breaks our heart that he isn’t here anymore.

“He was such a beautiful soul that was taken from us all way too soon.”

Ryan and a group of friends had spent the day riding in the Childers area and were on their way back to Bundaberg when the crash happened.

None of the riders were speeding at the time “and it was just a wrong place at the wrong time” his friend said.

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks head of marketing Penny Glasson said Ryan’s death was like losing a member of the family.

Mr Hickling and a group of friends had spent a the day riding in the Childers area and were on their way back to Bundaberg when the crash happened. Picture: Facebook

The 20-year-old had been with the company for two years, having started with an apprenticeship and working with the engineering team.

“It’s tough,” Ms Glasson said.

“Everyone is very upset.”

“Our thoughts go out to his family, his friends, and his colleagues,” Ms Glasson said.

The tragedy sparked an outpouring of grief from the community on social media.

One friend commented “ride in paradise. My condolences to the family and close friends you will be missed mate”.

Another commenter wrote “Condolences to the family and friends. RIP. Ride like the wind”.

The road was closed for a number of hours with motorists advised to seek alternative routes.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating and anyone who witnessed the crash or has any dashcam vision is urged to contact police.

Meanwhile, at Bundaberg South, there was a two-vehicle crash on Walker Street at 8.51pm Wednesday.

Three stable patients including a man in his 20s and two children were taken to hospital.

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Originally published as Ryan Hickling killed in shock motorcycle crash outside Bundaberg, QLD